Herniated Discs And Upper Back Pain

Causes, Cures And Prevention Of Herniated Discs

By Jarrett Kruse

Because herniated discs are more common in the lower back than in the upper back, they are frequently overlooked as the initial diagnosis for upper back pain. There’s also more literature about back pain prevention for the lower back than the upper. Usual causes of upper back pain are poor posture, muscle strain, or repetitive stress. Frequently only causing minor problems minor, these factors can be among the causes of herniated discs in the thoracic spine, as can trauma and injury. Treatment for herniated discs includes physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractics, medication, or injections to ease back pain, and, as a last resort, surgery. Herniated discs in the upper back frequently display no symptoms, so back pain may not be the symptom that signals the problem.

It’s less common to have herniated discs in the thoracic or upper back than either the lower back or neck. But they do occur. Upper back pain may be a symptom, but fractures or tumors may also cause that symptom. Sometimes pain radiates to the chest or belly, making diagnosis difficult. It’s more common for a medical professional to think of the source of the pain as an internal organ first, and look further only after ruling that out. Once you’ve established the diagnosis, you can choose a treatment option in consultation with your doctor or health care provider. The best way to avoid herniated discs or other back problems is to be conscious of and care for your back:

Get regular exercise—maintain flexibility and range of motion. Get your blood moving. If you have a desk job, take breaks and move around.

Learn how to move properly. Protect your back when performing the simple, daily tasks of life. Don’t reach out from the upper body—protect and support your back..

Stretch when you begin the day and after maintaining a position for a long time. Stay limber.